Embracing the Bounty of Seasonal Strawberries
Strawberries are a cherished seasonal delight, signaling the arrival of warmer weather and the bountiful growing season ahead. As a café dedicated to celebrating local, sustainable, and nutritious fare, we at Café Mila take great pride in sourcing the finest strawberries from regional producers. These ruby-red gems not only captivate our senses with their vibrant hues and sweet, juicy flavors, but they also embody the essence of community-driven agriculture.
In the northeastern United States and adjacent regions of Canada, strawberry production plays a vital role in the fabric of diversified fruit and vegetable farms. Unlike the large-scale operations in Florida and California, these northern growers typically devote a smaller share of their acreage to strawberries, relying heavily on direct-to-consumer sales channels to serve the regional demand. This unique dynamic has fostered a diverse array of production practices and marketing strategies, each tailored to the challenges and opportunities of the local climate.
Evolving Production Practices
The strawberry industry in the Northeast and Canada has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, as growers adapt to an increasingly complex pest and disease landscape, as well as the need to extend the growing season. While the traditional June-bearing cultivars still represent the majority of production, we have witnessed a growing interest in day-neutral varieties, which can provide a steadier stream of fresh fruit throughout the season.
One of the most significant shifts has been the adoption of protected culture techniques, such as the use of low tunnels, high tunnels, and plasticulture systems. These modified environments not only extend the harvest window but also help to mitigate the impacts of pests, diseases, and extreme weather events. In our recent survey of regional growers, we found that nearly 75% of day-neutral strawberry producers reported using some form of protected culture, compared to just 43% of June-bearing growers.
Interestingly, the choice of production system also seems to be influenced by the intended market. Growers who sell primarily through wholesale channels tend to favor the traditional matted-row system, while those focused on direct-to-consumer sales are more likely to embrace plasticulture and protected culture techniques. This strategic alignment allows them to better meet the evolving demands of their customers, who increasingly seek out local, high-quality, and season-extended strawberries.
Navigating Pest and Disease Challenges
One of the primary drivers behind the diversification of production practices in the Northeast and Canada is the ongoing battle against a formidable pest and disease complex. Growers in these regions face a unique set of challenges, from the ubiquitous presence of Botrytis (gray mold) to the invasive threat of spotted wing drosophila.
Interestingly, our survey revealed that while Botrytis, weeds, and leaf spot diseases were the top overall concerns across all regions, the prevalence of certain pests varied significantly. For example, tarnished plant bug was the most commonly reported issue for growers in Ontario and Québec, but it did not even crack the top 10 list for those in the mid-Atlantic states. Similarly, deer pressure was a much more pressing concern for mid-Atlantic producers than for their counterparts in other regions.
This diversity in pest and disease pressures underscores the importance of tailored, regionally-specific integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. Growers in the Northeast and Canada have become adept at leveraging a range of techniques, from the strategic use of biological controls to the implementation of cultural practices like crop rotation and sanitation. However, as climate change continues to alter the pest landscape, the need for ongoing research, education, and adaptive management strategies becomes increasingly critical.
Embracing Organic and Sustainable Practices
Alongside the technical challenges of strawberry production, growers in the Northeast and Canada are also grappling with the growing consumer demand for organic and sustainable farming practices. While the majority of the region’s strawberry acreage is still managed conventionally, a significant and growing number of producers have transitioned to certified organic production.
Our survey found that organic growers tend to rely more heavily on cultural control methods, such as the use of cover crops and mechanical cultivation, to manage weeds and pests. They also reported applying fewer pesticide applications overall, with the majority using no synthetic inputs at all. Interestingly, the pest and disease pressures experienced by organic and conventional growers were largely similar, underscoring the need for comprehensive, systems-based approaches to sustainable strawberry production.
Beyond organic certification, many growers in the region are also exploring a range of other sustainable practices, including the use of renewable energy sources, the implementation of integrated nutrient management strategies, and the enhancement of on-farm biodiversity. These holistic approaches not only benefit the environment but also align with the values and preferences of the region’s increasingly discerning consumers.
Expanding Marketing Channels
The northeastern and Canadian strawberry industry is characterized by a diverse array of marketing channels, reflecting the unique needs and preferences of both growers and consumers. While wholesale markets remain an important outlet, particularly for larger-scale operations, the majority of growers in the region have embraced direct-to-consumer sales through channels such as pick-your-own, farm stands, and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs.
This emphasis on local, direct-to-consumer sales is driven in part by the short harvest window for June-bearing cultivars, which typically span just 4 to 6 weeks in the northern climate. By offering a personalized, agritourism experience, growers can capture a greater share of the consumer dollar while also fostering a stronger connection between the farm and the community.
Interestingly, our survey found that many growers have adopted a multi-pronged marketing approach, combining several sales channels to diversify their risk and expand their customer base. For example, more than 60% of respondents reported using two or more marketing strategies, with some even incorporating value-added products, such as jams and preserves, into their offerings.
As consumer preferences continue to evolve, growers in the Northeast and Canada are also exploring innovative ways to extend the strawberry season and meet the growing demand for year-round local produce. The rise in popularity of day-neutral cultivars, coupled with the strategic use of protected culture techniques, has enabled some producers to provide fresh strawberries well into the fall, capturing premium prices and further strengthening their connection with the community.
Cultivar Selection and Yield Considerations
The selection of strawberry cultivars is a crucial decision for growers in the Northeast and Canada, as they must balance factors such as regional adaptation, disease resistance, flavor profile, and yield potential. Our survey revealed that the venerable ‘Jewel’ remains the most widely grown June-bearing variety, with more than half of respondents considering it a “tried and true” cultivar.
Interestingly, growers in the region are also actively exploring newer June-bearing options, such as ‘Malwina’, ‘Rutgers Scarlet’, and ‘Flavorfest’, as they seek to identify varieties that are better suited to the unique growing conditions and market demands of the Northeast and Canada.
For day-neutral strawberries, the landscape is more consolidated, with ‘Albion’ and ‘Seascape’ emerging as the clear favorites among growers. However, a significant number of producers are also experimenting with cultivars like ‘Evie-2’, ‘Monterey’, and ‘San Andreas’, in the hopes of finding varieties that can deliver consistently high yields and superior fruit quality throughout the extended growing season.
When it comes to yields, our survey respondents reported a wide range of results, with June-bearing cultivars generally outperforming their day-neutral counterparts. The most common yield range for June-bearing strawberries was 5,000 to 8,000 pounds per acre, while the majority of day-neutral growers reported less than 3,000 pounds per acre. This disparity highlights the ongoing challenge of achieving economically viable production levels with the extended-season varieties, particularly in the face of the region’s pest and disease pressures.
Embracing Diverse Production Systems
The northeastern and Canadian strawberry industry is characterized by a rich tapestry of production systems, each tailored to the unique needs and constraints of individual growers. While the traditional matted-row approach remains prevalent, especially among June-bearing cultivars, we have witnessed a growing embrace of more intensive management practices, such as plasticulture and protected culture.
Plasticulture systems, which utilize raised beds, plastic mulch, and drip irrigation, have become increasingly popular, particularly among growers focused on direct-to-consumer sales. These techniques not only improve weed control and water use efficiency but also allow for earlier and higher-yielding harvests. Interestingly, our survey found that plasticulture was more commonly employed for day-neutral strawberries, with 75% of respondents in this category reporting its use, compared to just 43% of June-bearing growers.
The use of protected culture, such as low tunnels and high tunnels, has also gained traction in the region, with 13% of day-neutral growers and 4% of June-bearing growers reporting the implementation of these modified environments. These structures can provide a range of benefits, including increased yields, improved fruit quality, and enhanced pest and disease management – all of which are critical considerations in the face of a changing climate and an evolving pest landscape.
Ultimately, the diversity of production systems observed in the Northeast and Canada reflects the region’s commitment to innovation, adaptability, and the pursuit of optimal outcomes for both growers and consumers. As new techniques and technologies emerge, we can expect to see continued experimentation and the development of tailored, site-specific approaches that leverage the unique strengths of each growing system.
Grower Perspectives and Information Needs
To gain a deeper understanding of the current state of the strawberry industry in the Northeast and Canada, we conducted a series of in-depth interviews with a diverse group of growers. These conversations provided valuable insights into the real-world experiences, challenges, and information needs of those working on the frontlines of this dynamic sector.
One of the key themes that emerged was the importance of adaptability and the willingness to experiment with new techniques and cultivars. As one grower from Ontario remarked, “You can’t just stick to the same old way of doing things – you have to be willing to try new things and see what works best for your operation.” This sentiment was echoed by several other interviewees, who emphasized the need to constantly evolve their practices in response to changing market demands, pest pressures, and climatic conditions.
Another recurring theme was the desire for more comprehensive, regionally-specific research and extension support. Growers expressed a keen interest in learning about the latest advancements in areas such as integrated pest management, organic production methods, and cultivar performance under various growing systems. They also highlighted the value of on-farm demonstrations and peer-to-peer learning opportunities, which allow them to see new techniques in action and share best practices with their fellow producers.
Interestingly, the growers we spoke with also emphasized the importance of marketing and customer engagement in the success of their operations. Several noted the growing demand for year-round local produce and the need to find innovative ways to extend the strawberry season, whether through the use of protected culture or the strategic selection of day-neutral cultivars. Others stressed the importance of creating a positive, memorable experience for their customers, whether through the aesthetics of their farm stand or the level of personal attention and service they provide.
Overall, the insights gleaned from our interviews underscore the dynamism and resilience of the strawberry industry in the Northeast and Canada. These growers are not only grappling with complex production challenges but also actively shaping the future of their sector through their entrepreneurial spirit, their commitment to sustainability, and their deep connection to their local communities.
Embracing the Future of Strawberry Production
As we look to the future of strawberry production in the Northeast and Canada, it is clear that the industry will continue to evolve and adapt to meet the ever-changing demands of both growers and consumers. From the strategic use of protected culture techniques to the exploration of new cultivars and organic production methods, the region’s producers are at the forefront of innovation, driven by a relentless pursuit of quality, sustainability, and community engagement.
At Café Mila, we are thrilled to be part of this dynamic and ever-evolving industry, working closely with our regional growers to source the finest, most flavorful strawberries for our menu. By supporting these local producers and celebrating the unique terroir of the Northeast and Canada, we hope to inspire our customers to embrace the joy and bounty of seasonal eating, while also fostering a deeper appreciation for the hard work and dedication that goes into cultivating these beloved berries.
As we continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the future, we are confident that the strawberry growers of the Northeast and Canada will rise to the occasion, leveraging their creativity, resilience, and deep connection to the land to ensure that these delectable fruits remain a cherished part of our culinary landscape for generations to come.
